Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned would-be Russian mercenaries that their invasion of Ukraine would be the worst decision of their lives.

"We have information that the Russian military is recruiting mercenaries from other countries. They are trying to trick as many young people as possible into military service. You and me know that this will not help them. And therefore, now I am warning everyone who tries to join the occupiers on our Ukrainian land: this will be the worst decision in your life. A long life is better than the money that you are offered for a short one," Zelensky said in a video message on Friday night.